what rhetorical techniques/devices are used in "a talk to teachers" by james badwin?
These sites will give you an analysis of that writing.
http://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%22a+talk+to+teachers%22,+James+Baldwin,+analysis&hl=en&um=1&ie=UTF-8&oi=scholart
Here is a site on rhetorical devices.
http://www.virtualsalt.com/rhetoric.htm
To identify rhetorical techniques and devices in a specific text like "A Talk to Teachers" by James Baldwin, here's a step-by-step process you can follow:
1. Read and understand the text: Begin by reading and comprehending the entire text. Familiarize yourself with the main ideas, arguments, and themes presented by James Baldwin.
2. Identify persuasive appeals: Rhetorical techniques often involve persuasive appeals. Determine whether the author employs ethos (ethical appeal), pathos (emotional appeal), or logos (logical appeal) in the text. Look for passages where Baldwin seeks to establish his credibility, evoke emotional responses, or use logical reasoning.
3. Identify rhetorical figures: Rhetorical figures encompass a variety of techniques used to enhance language and add emphasis. Look for examples of figurative language such as metaphors, similes, personification, and hyperbole. These figures of speech contribute to the rhetorical effectiveness of the essay.
4. Note patterns of repetition: Repetition is often used to reinforce key arguments or ideas. Pay attention to repeated words, phrases, or sentence structures throughout the text. Repetition serves to emphasize important points and can create a persuasive impact.
5. Analyze sentence structure and syntax: Rhetorical techniques may also involve sentence structure and syntax. Examine the length and complexity of sentences in the essay. Note any deliberate use of parallelism, antithesis, or other sentence structures that contribute to the overall rhetorical effect.
6. Consider rhetorical appeals to history or authority: Baldwin often draws upon historical or authoritative references to lend weight to his arguments. Identify instances where he references historical events, literary works, or well-known figures. These references help support his ideas and enhance his persuasive rhetoric.
By carefully analyzing the essay using the steps outlined above, you will be able to identify the rhetorical techniques and devices employed by James Baldwin in "A Talk to Teachers." Remember, the key is to closely engage with the text, extract relevant examples, and interpret how they contribute to the overall persuasive effect.